BY STEVE THIRIOT
The architects of death metal, Cannibal Corpse, have embarked on yet another journey into the dark recesses of human imagination with their latest offering, "Chaos Horrific". Since 1988, this band has become synonymous with genre-defining compositions, setting the proverbial bar unreachably high for their contemporaries. With the 2021’s "Violence Unimagined", they explored the complexities and intensities of brutality, and "Chaos Horrific" seems to be an organic extension, a new chapter added to their terrifyingly brilliant legacy.
"Chaos Horrific" echoes its predecessor but stands firmly on its grounds, proudly boasting its individuality. The band’s bassist, Alex Webster, sums it up as a “full-on death metal album, Cannibal Corpse style”. The sonic aggression in tracks like “Overlords of Violence” and “Frenzied Feeding” unveils the unparalleled brutality that the band is revered for.
While the album feels like a sibling to "Violence Unimagined", it is a beast of its own. Each track in "Chaos Horrific" has its identity, mirroring no other, crafting a tapestry of horror that is rich in texture and depth. The intricate riffing and relentless drumming, coupled with guttural vocals, paint a vivid picture of chaos – a horrific masterpiece.
Highlights-
Tracks like “Summoned for Sacrifice” and “Blood Blind” manifest the band’s ability to curate a blend of speed, technicality, and raw power, all while maintaining a balance that prevents the album from falling into the abyss of noise. The title track, “Chaos Horrific”, stands as a testament to their mastery over the genre, showcasing a composition that is as complex as it is raw.
“Fracture and Refracture” and “Pitchfork Impalement” demonstrate the band’s creativity in exploring themes of violence and destruction, pushing the boundaries of what is conceivable in death metal. The narratives are gruesomely poetic, luring the listener into a realm where beauty intertwines with the grotesque.
"Chaos Horrific" by Cannibal Corpse is a monstrous addition to their discography. It reinforces their standing as the overlords of death metal, offering a symphony of destruction that is both brutal and beautiful in its own right. The band has successfully continued the narrative from "Violence Unimagined", while ensuring that "Chaos Horrific" is a unique entity in itself. For those who seek solace in the chaotic, and find poetry in destruction, this album is a must-listen.
Listen to the Album on SPOTIFY